Mississippi has always been known for its rich cultural heritage, its stories, and its people who turn everyday life into something extraordinary. Now, that legacy will take center stage on a national level as our state heads to Pasadena for the 137th Rose Parade on January 1, 2026. The theme? “Where Creativity Blooms.” And if there’s one thing Mississippi knows well, it’s creativity.
This year’s float isn’t just beautiful—it’s a love letter to the writers, artists, and dreamers who have shaped our world. Imagine watching the parade and suddenly seeing tributes to literary giants like Jesmyn Ward, Tennessee Williams, Willie Morris, William Faulkner, Eudora Welty, and Greg Iles rolling down the boulevard. These names aren’t just authors on a shelf; they’re part of Mississippi’s heartbeat, voices that echo our stories far beyond our borders.
But the float doesn’t stop there. Iconic landmarks will come to life, including Faulkner’s Rowan Oak and the whimsical Birthplace of Kermit the Frog. Who else but Mississippi could bring together such a perfect blend of history, artistry, and a little bit of humor, too?
The creative showcase continues with live music from country star Charlie Worsham, whose voice and guitar carry the soulful sounds of our state. Ballet dancers representing the USA International Ballet Competition—an event held right here in Jackson—will add elegance and movement, reminding the world that Mississippi talent extends far beyond what’s written on paper or played on a radio.
Adding even more color to the float, the design takes inspiration from Walter Anderson, one of Mississippi’s most beloved artists. His whimsical, nature-inspired style captures the beauty of the Gulf Coast, and now, his influence will bloom in the streets of Pasadena.
The Rose Parade is one of the most-watched events in the country, and millions of viewers will see Mississippi in a whole new light—not just as the birthplace of blues, storytelling, and hospitality, but as a state where imagination and artistry continue to flourish.
On January 1, 2026, as the float makes its way down Colorado Boulevard, Mississippi will remind the world of what we’ve always known: creativity is part of our soul, and it blooms here like nowhere else.
